Hero’s Welcome: K-9 Veteran Frenky Reunited with Handler After Years Apart

A heartwarming reunion took place in San Antonio, Texas, as K-9 veteran Frenky, a 10-year-old German shepherd, was brought together with his former handler, Army Staff Sgt. Kristin Vanderzanden, after a separation of three long years. The reunion was made possible by the American Humane Society’s (AHS) Military Working Dog (MWD) Reunification program, a testament to the bond between soldiers and their canine companions.

Frenky’s story is one of dedication and service. Trained in explosive detection and bite work, he served alongside Vanderzanden from 2017 to 2021. For Vanderzanden, Frenky was her first K-9 partner, forging a unique and lasting connection. The K-9 retired in January, prompting Vanderzanden to pursue his adoption, eager to provide him with a loving home after his years of faithful service.

Vanderzanden, who also serves as one of the Army’s two drill sergeants for the MWD program, shared a significant portion of her military career with Frenky, nearly four and a half years. Their partnership included two combat deployments: a nine-month tour in Afghanistan and a ten-month tour in Iraq. These deployments were filled with challenges and dangers, testing the mettle of both soldier and dog.

During a particularly harrowing mission in Afghanistan, Frenky’s unwavering composure proved crucial. Despite encountering sniper fire and mortar rounds, and amidst U.S. casualties, Frenky remained focused on his duty, diligently searching for explosives. His bravery and steadfastness in the face of adversity earned him the admiration of his fellow soldiers. Following this mission, Frenky became something of a mascot for the U.S. Special Forces team stationed at the base. Vanderzanden fondly remembers his "sweet, goofy personality" providing a much-needed morale boost in a stressful environment.

The bond between Vanderzanden and Frenky extended far beyond the professional realm. Defying protocol, Frenky chose to sleep on the floor of Vanderzanden’s room during their deployment in Afghanistan instead of remaining in his kennel. This simple act spoke volumes about the deep connection and mutual trust they shared. It illustrated a relationship that transcended the typical handler-dog dynamic, evolving into a true partnership built on affection and loyalty.

Their collaborative efforts weren’t limited to combat zones. Vanderzanden and Frenky also completed 20 Secret Service missions, protecting the President and First Lady of the United States, as well as numerous foreign dignitaries. These high-stakes assignments demanded precision, discipline, and unwavering focus, qualities that both Vanderzanden and Frenky possessed in abundance.

The separation came in 2021 when Vanderzanden was reassigned to Fort Drum in northern New York. Leaving Frenky behind at Fort Johnson in Louisiana was a devastating experience for her. In an interview with the AHS, Vanderzanden expressed the emotional toll of the separation, stating that "it was like leaving a child behind." The thought of Frenky potentially retiring due to old age only intensified her desire to be reunited with him, leaving her "chomping at the bit" for the possibility of his adoption.

While Frenky served with three handlers throughout his military career, his connection with Vanderzanden remained uniquely strong. Their shared experiences in combat and high-profile security missions forged an unbreakable bond.

The AHS MWD Reunification program played a crucial role in making the reunion a reality. The program generously covered the costs of Frenky’s travel from Fort Johnson to San Antonio, removing a significant obstacle and paving the way for the heartwarming reunion. Furthermore, AHS will continue to support Frenky by covering all his veterinary costs for the remainder of his life, ensuring he receives the best possible care in his retirement.

Vanderzanden is eagerly anticipating providing Frenky with a comfortable and loving retirement. She plans to give him the opportunity to simply "enjoy being a dog," allowing him to relax on the couch and experience the comforts of a home environment, a stark contrast to the kennels he has known for so long.

Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of the AHS, eloquently captured the significance of Frenky’s service and the importance of the reunion. "Frenky is an extraordinary dog who made invaluable contributions to our country," she stated. "Like his fellow military working dogs, Frenky is an unsung hero who deserves our gratitude and respect. American Humane Society was honored to help give him the reunion and retirement he deserves."

The AHS MWD Reunification program recognizes the sacrifices made by these canine veterans and strives to provide them with the opportunity to live out their retirement in comfort and love. The program’s website emphasizes its commitment to honoring "the lifesaving contributions of all veterans, including the military working dogs (MWDs) who risked their lives courageously serving our country."

Frenky’s story is not just about military service; it’s about the profound bond that can exist between humans and animals. It’s a story of courage, loyalty, and unwavering devotion. As Frenky embarks on this new chapter, he will be welcomed into Vanderzanden’s family, joining her other dog, a German shepherd and cattle dog mix named Cora. Together, they will provide Frenky with the love, companionship, and care he so richly deserves after years of dedicated service to his country. This reunion serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions of military working dogs and the importance of honoring their service and sacrifice.